Lakewood Ranch Cinemas has growing economic, entertaining impact

By Nick Williams
nwilliams@bradenton.com

The movie going experience will probably never die, despite more people watching movies on mobile devices and their home entertainment center.

Still, "there's nothing like seeing what you want to see on the big screen," says Tim Calandra, director of community outreach and public relations for the Sarasota Film Society. "The great thing about going to movies is it's still an inexpensive day out."

For Lakewood Ranch residents, Lakewood Ranch Cinemas continues to offer a entertaining day out while also impacting the local economy.

The six-screen cineplex sold 230,000 tickets last year and generated $1.25 million, Calandra said.

"It has become a focal point to Lakewood Ranch," Calandra said.

Movie goers can purchase alcoholic beverages at the cinema and Calandra is hoping to bring in more independent films to the cinema.

The cinema is located on Main Street, which includes shops, restaurants and a mini-golf course.

"It's a great area," Calandra said. "It's family oriented."